Podcasts about christlikeness

When you get in the habit of asking God how he sees the situation, rather than how you perceive it, it will lead you to reflect on how your perspective changes and on the love and compassion you have for others. Reflect on Ephesians 6:12-13 today and put on the Armor of God "so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” Highlights: Our real battle is spiritual, not against people, and the enemy seeks to divide, deceive, and distract us. Christians are called to put on the full armor of God daily: belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, shoes of peace, shield of faith, and helmet of salvation. Daily Scripture reading, prayer, and reflection equip us to resist the devil’s schemes and strengthen our walk with God. Seeking God’s perspective over our own helps us grow in compassion, grace, and Christlikeness. Equipping ourselves with God’s armor allows us to stand firm, resist temptation, and remain close to Him in every situation. This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: Put on the Armor of GodBy: Michelle Lazurek Bible Reading:“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” - Ephesians 6:12-13 Churches can have their share of problems. In twenty-five years of ministry, we've seen many churches that constantly have conflict. The weekly drama can become too much for leadership to bear. The spiritual battle that Christians face can become the strongest in church settings. People who think they know better about how to run a church can drive leadership to the point of breakdown, leaving them feeling isolated and alone. In these situations, it can be easy for a leader to see that the problem lies with the people. However, the people are not the problem. The problem is with the enemy. The enemy divides, deceives, and is against any vision for possible success or movement toward the Holy Spirit. The above verse reminds us that this is to be expected. Christians, no matter how healthy their church is, have a battle they must fight—their battle is against the enemy. Daily, we are instructed to put on the full armor of God, which consists of the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of peace, the shield of faith, and the helmet of salvation. When we choose to arm ourselves with these elements, we are better prepared to thwart the enemy than when our minds are cluttered with thoughts that do not align with Scripture. Take a moment to analyze your life. Do you equip yourself with the full armor of God every day? Do you start your day by reading the Word, praying, and asking God to help you in every situation throughout the day? Do you shorten your devotional time so you can get done what's on your to-do list, forsaking the very person who can help you get through that list in the first place? If you find you are not fully equipping yourself with God, there's hope. Start your day with half an hour in the Word of God. Read a couple of chapters each day. Journal about your thoughts on the matter. Take notes on what you read and use commentaries to study what you read. Don't just read it to check it off your to-do list. Rather, apply it to your lives, and then no area of your life will become vulnerable to Satan’s schemes. Pray without ceasing. Every time you come into a situation you don't know how to handle, pray to God. Ask him when he would have you do that in that situation. Help him illuminate the situation with his eyes, rather than yours. When you get in the habit of asking God how he sees the situation, rather than how you perceive it, it will lead you to reflect on how your perspective changes and on the love and compassion you have for others. When you shift your perspective from one of selfishness to treating others as if they bear the image of God, you'll become more like Christ. It will also help you grow in grace and mercy with everyone in your life. Not only is it important to equip yourself with the armor of God every day to fight the devil’s schemes, but it is also so you can withstand the devil's plan to get you to move away from God. Satan is relentless and wants you to worship him and not God. He'll do anything to get your attention and approval. Be someone who can see right through the devil and call him to flee. When you can do this, you can not only withstand Satan's schemes, but also stand on your own two feet, planted firmly on the word of God. Father, let us be people who equip ourselves with the armor of God so that we can be protected from the devil. Let us enter this spiritual battle with ease. Let us be equipped with the helmet of salvation and the word of God. Let us fight the greatest battles on our knees so that we can be closer to you and further away from the enemy. Amen. Intersecting Faith & Life: What is one step you can take to equip yourself with the armor of God today? How can you make this a daily habit? Further Reading:James 4:7 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Show notes: Growing into Christlikeness is not a linear process. Yet the historic Christian church has identified three movements that we revisit with increasing depth.   Purification: This refers to growing in increasing moral excellence.  Illumination: This refers to growing in increasing understanding of truth.  Communion: This refers to growing in increasing fellowship with God.  These provide a helpful "map" for understanding the invitation before us to grow in Christ-likeness. In the middle ages of our life, we can expect God to use the stage we are in to perform these movements of growth. Career, family, responsibilities, duties and life circumstances are not a deterrent for spiritual growth but instead serve as the context for which our spiritual growth happens. 

Rev. Terence Gray explores Paul's vision for a Jesus‑shaped community in Colossians 3, reminding us that Christian identity begins not with what separates us, but with the One who holds us together. In a world where differences easily feel overwhelming, Pastor Terence invites us to recover an “overview effect” of faith—learning to see ourselves and one another through the lens of Christ's sufficiency and love. As he unpacks Paul's call to “clothe ourselves” with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, and above all love, we're challenged to consider how these virtues reshape relationships, mend divides, and form a community marked by grace. This message calls us to live from our new identity as God's chosen, holy, and beloved people—and to recognize how God may be tutoring us toward Christlikeness through our everyday relationships. In all of it, we are invited to let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts so that unity becomes not an aspiration but a Spirit‑formed reality.

  At Redeemer, we take seriously Jesus' call to "Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Apprenticeship to Jesus is not a one time decision, but a lifelong journey of following Jesus as our master-teacher. Since the goal of the Christian life is maturity in Jesus, apprenticeship must be deep and holistic, transforming the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and vocational parts of men and women. Apprenticeship to Jesus is learning to practice the way of Jesus in our homes, relationships, neighborhoods, and jobs. We believe Christlikeness is cultivated as we implement spiritual practices, live in community with other believers, and submit to the Word and the Spirit. We agree with Dallas Willard who said, "that the gospel is opposed to earning, not effort." As we move towards cultivating a life of loving God and people, we trust Christ will mature us into his likeness. https://redeemerwichita.church/  

Many of us grew up in an empathy desert and missed out on being seen, known, and loved. Sadly, a lack of being understood and accepted often unintentionally creates emotional distance in our churches, friendships, and even our relationship with God. We might fail to realize that we can't become more loving and healthy like Jesus without the grace of empathy. Tune in for this episode of Soul Talks to listen to part one of a talk that Bill and Kristi shared at the American Association of Christian Counselors Conference. You'll see that empathy is more than just a listening skill — it's an expression of love that helps us cultivate the secure attachment necessary to persevere through trials and grow in Christlikeness. Resources for this Episode: The Bible studies, research, diagrams, and practices referenced in this episode can be found in our book Deeply Loved: Receiving and Reflecting God's Great Empathy for You If you'd like Bill and Kristi to speak at your conference, event, or church, you can email contact@soulshepherding.org. You might also: Attend a Soul Shepherding Retreat Meet with a Soul Shepherding Spiritual Director Donate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks  

We have arrived! This episode explores the final and highest rung of the Apostle Peter's “virtue ladder”- agape, the selfless, God‑shaped love that defines the true purpose of Christian character. We walk through how each previous rung—faith, moral excellence, knowledge, self‑control, perseverance, godliness and brotherly kindness—builds the capacity to reach this culminating form of love. While Strong's Concordance’s Greek definition of agape may sound simple or even underwhelming, Scripture masterfully fills the word with depth, weight and divine intention. This eight and final rung powerfully reveals the height what our Christian characters aspire to! The love of God Himself Agape is the love God demonstrates in giving His only begotten son. It is the love Jesus lived by laying down his life, and the love the apostles taught as the unmistakable evidence of spiritual maturity. This love is “disinterested” in the classical sense—free from selfish motive, seeking no advantage and offered even when it is not reciprocated. It is critical to remember that while this kind of love grows out of brotherly kindness, it surpasses it by embracing even the hardest expressions of love: loving enemies, blessing those who persecute us and caring for those we don't naturally like. A powerful illustration of this is the story of Maximilian Kolbe, who voluntarily took another man's place in a starvation bunker at Auschwitz—an act that embodied Christlike, sacrificial agape. The first few verses of 1 Corinthians 13, show us how this kind of love must shape what we as Christians say, know and do; without it, eloquence becomes noise, knowledge becomes pride, and even great acts of sacrifice lose their spiritual value. Finally, we observe how the Scriptures remind us that perfect love casts out fear, and that agape matures in us as we continually practice the earlier virtues. When brotherly love is strong and relationships are aligned with God's will, agape becomes the defining purpose of a disciple's life, shining as the highest expression of Christlikeness. Key Takeaways Agape is the highest rung of Christian character, built on the foundation of the previous seven virtues. Strong's definition is insufficient—Scripture reveals agape as God's own selfless, sacrificial love. Jesus models agape through his willingness to lay down his life. Agape includes loving enemies and those we don't naturally like. Without agape, words, knowledge and actions lose spiritual value (1 Corinthians 13). Perfect love casts out fear, revealing maturity and alignment with God's purpose.

Pastor Dan's sermon from 1 Corinthians 3:1–4 teaches that many believers remain spiritually immature when they continue to live according to the flesh rather than growing in Christlike thinking and behavior. The jealousy, strife, and divisions among the Corinthians showed that they were still spiritual infants, but God's desire is that His people grow into maturity, unity, and Christlikeness as described in **Ephesians 4:11–16**. True growth begins when believers intentionally desire what God desires and pursue a life that avoids sin and serves others. #GrowInChrist #SpiritualMaturity #1Corinthians3 #ChristianGrowth #BiblicalDiscipleship #FollowChrist #ChurchUnity #CalvaryTilton

The Spirit shapes who we are becoming. This week we will consider how spiritual gifts form us into Christlikeness and grow the church in maturity.Preacher:Sermon by Luke NelsonThis episode is part of Wind & Fire, a teaching series exploring the person, presence and power of the Holy Spirit in the life of the church.As we open the Scriptures, we look to Christ and ask God to move among us again, bringing fresh wind and fresh fire to our hearts, equipping us with spiritual gifts, and empowering us for the mission of Jesus.Find out more at cityonahill.com.au/windandfireMentioned in this episode:Podcast Intro

At Redeemer, we take seriously Jesus' call to "Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Apprenticeship to Jesus is not a one time decision, but a lifelong journey of following Jesus as our master-teacher. Since the goal of the Christian life is maturity in Jesus, apprenticeship must be deep and holistic, transforming the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and vocational parts of men and women. Apprenticeship to Jesus is learning to practice the way of Jesus in our homes, relationships, neighborhoods, and jobs. We believe Christlikeness is cultivated as we implement spiritual practices, live in community with other believers, and submit to the Word and the Spirit. We agree with Dallas Willard who said, "that the gospel is opposed to earning, not effort." As we move towards cultivating a life of loving God and people, we trust Christ will mature us into his likeness. https://redeemerwichita.church/

In this powerful continuation of our series on "The Danger of Being Self-Righteous," Brother Jim dives deep into Matthew 23:15-22, where Jesus unleashes some of His strongest prophetic warnings against the scribes and Pharisees. These "woes" aren't born of anger but of heartbreak—Jesus grieves over religious leaders who preserve the appearance of holiness while losing God's heart entirely. Explore three sobering pitfalls that still threaten believers today: Misguided Passion: Zealously making converts, yet turning them into "twice as much a son of hell" by multiplying religion and hypocrisy instead of true righteousness and Christlikeness. Spiritual Blindness: Like blind guides, we can value gold over the temple, gifts over the altar, and structure over the Spirit—prioritizing rules, appearances, and busy religious activity while missing God's true priorities. Misplaced Values: The Pharisees chased loopholes and illusions of righteousness, but Jesus reminds us that every oath, every sacred thing, points back to God Himself. True integrity aligns our hearts with Him, not clever wording or external polish. This message is a loving mirror for all of us—pastors, leaders, and everyday Christians alike. Are we transforming lives into followers of Jesus, or just reproducing our own distorted priorities? Jesus rebukes hypocrisy because He loves us and offers genuine transformation through the cross. Join us for an honest self-examination: Check your heart, realign your values, and pursue humble, authentic faith. It's Jesus and Jesus alone—not membership cards or performance—that saves. Perfect for anyone weary of religious show and hungry for real discipleship. Listen now and let the Word challenge and change you. Amen.

Henry Drummond once wrote, “To become like Christ is the only thing in the world worth caring for…before which every ambition of man is folly and all lower achievement vain.” Those words cut straight to the heart of how Scripture defines success. In a culture that measures achievement by accumulation and applause, Jesus offers a very different scoreboard—one centered not on what we gain, but on who we become. The Success Story We've Been Taught It's easy to believe that if we could just reach a little higher, earn a little more, or move a little faster, we'd finally arrive. We see this impulse at the very beginning of Scripture. In the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve weren't lacking anything, yet they believed something better was being held back (Genesis 3). At the Tower of Babel, humanity declared, “Let us make a name for ourselves” (Genesis 11:4). Success, in their minds, meant defining greatness on their own terms. That same instinct shapes us today. We measure success by paychecks and promotions, by titles, trophies, and the size of our homes or portfolios. And in a world that equates success with accumulation, it's hard not to wonder: Am I successful yet? Will more finally be enough? Jesus' Warning About the Illusion of More Jesus speaks directly into that tension in Luke 12:15: “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” He then tells the parable of the rich fool (Luke 12:16–21). A man experiences an abundant harvest and decides to tear down his barns to build bigger ones. He reassures himself: “Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.” On the surface, it sounds like success. He planned ahead. He saved. He prepared. But Jesus calls him a fool. Listen to the language: my barns, my grain, my goods, my soul. There's no gratitude, no dependence on God, no concern for others. His definition of success was accumulation, and his confidence rested entirely in what he had stored up. God's response is sobering: “This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?” (Luke 12:20) Jesus concludes, “So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God” (Luke 12:21). The story is meant to shake us awake. It exposes how easily we confuse preparation with control and wisdom with self-reliance. God isn't measuring success by what we store—He's measuring it by what we surrender. A New Definition of Success The apostle Paul understood this well. By every cultural standard of his day, Paul had succeeded. Yet he wrote: “I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord” (Philippians 3:8). Paul didn't lower the bar for success—he replaced it. Scripture tells us God's goal for our lives plainly: “For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son” (Romans 8:29). That's the metric. Not income. Not influence. Not recognition. Christlikeness. So it's worth asking: What scoreboard are you watching right now? Whose applause are you chasing? If your goals are rooted in impressing others or securing more for yourself, satisfaction will always feel just out of reach. But if your goals are rooted in becoming more like Christ, you'll discover a kind of success that cannot be taken away. Jesus invites us to measure progress differently. Instead of asking, “Did I win today?” we can ask, “Did I look a little more like Jesus today?” In God's economy: Success is measured by obedience, not accumulation. By faithfulness, not fame. By surrender, not status. And God delights in what is done faithfully—even when no one else sees. Jesus puts it plainly: “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul?” (Matthew 16:26) Real success isn't what you gain. It's who you become in Christ. Aligning Our Hearts With What Lasts This is one of the reasons I wrote Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Devotional to Faithful Stewardship. Each day is designed to help realign your heart—and your financial decisions—with God's purposes, so that success is defined not by accumulation, but by transformation. You can order a copy or place a bulk order for your church or small group at FaithFi.com/Shop. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Should we tithe on our business's gross revenue, or just on the salary we actually pay ourselves? I have a 19-year-old niece and would like to contribute the first $1,000 to an IRA to help her start learning about budgeting and financial responsibility. Should I connect with a Certified Kingdom Advisor, or simply open an account through a company like Fidelity or Nationwide? My husband had a TIAA account from his time as an adjunct professor. Since I'm 76, I'm required to take distributions each year. I'd prefer to give that money to my son so it can remain invested and continue growing. Is that possible? My wife and I are both in our 70s and trying to determine how to divide our estate among our three children, our new church, and a few ministries we support. I know every situation is unique, but are there guidelines or resources to help us think through percentage allocations wisely? I'd like to lower my mortgage payment. I owe $89,000 at 3.5%, and my monthly payment is $1,254. I have cash available to apply toward the principal. If I make a lump-sum principal payment, will that reduce my monthly payment? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Splitting Heirs: Giving Your Money and Things to Your Children Without Ruining Their Lives by Ron Blue with Jeremy White Sound Mind Investing Fidelity | Schwab | Schwab Intelligent Portfolios Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this thought-provoking episode, we return to our series "The Last Kingdom" by beginning with a captivating parable about a young girl on a swim team who, unaware of the competitive nature of the sport, finds joy in meeting new friends instead of winning races. This story serves as a metaphor for how we often run different races in life, sometimes missing the true purpose of our journey. As we transition into the core message, we discuss the significance of recognizing Jesus not just as a personal savior but as God's final king who established a kingdom that transforms our lives and communities here and now. The episode emphasizes that the fight we are called to is not about winning or losing in the traditional sense but about embodying the love and values of Christ in our daily lives. Join us as we challenge conventional thinking about faith, explore the true essence of the gospel, and encourage listeners to embrace a kingdom mindset that prioritizes love, service, and Christlikeness. This episode is a call to action for all who seek to understand their role in God's kingdom and how to live it out authentically. Key Topics: -The importance of evaluating personal narratives -The parable of the young swimmer and its implications -Understanding Jesus as king and the nature of His kingdom -The call to fight the good fight of faith -Living out Christlike values in a modern context Read along with our chosen scripture: Matthew 6:10; Luke 23:2; John 18:33–34, 36–37; 1 Timothy 6:12; 2 Timothy 4:6–7 The Main Idea: The fight of faith is about becoming more like Jesus, not about defeating enemies. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We are an alternative to church as usual. Our Sunday worship service is approximately a 75-minute experience designed to introduce people to the message of Jesus and equip believers to live their lives in response to the Gospel while their kids enjoy one of our safe children's environments. Centerpoint is designed to meet you wherever you are on the journey whether you are just checking out the "church thing" or you are a committed Christ follower. Centerpoint is a casual environment that combines today's music with creative media and relevant teaching. We hope you will visit us at Centerpoint Church regardless of what your past church experience has looked like.

At Redeemer, we take seriously Jesus' call to "Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Apprenticeship to Jesus is not a one time decision, but a lifelong journey of following Jesus as our master-teacher. Since the goal of the Christian life is maturity in Jesus, apprenticeship must be deep and holistic, transforming the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and vocational parts of men and women. Apprenticeship to Jesus is learning to practice the way of Jesus in our homes, relationships, neighborhoods, and jobs. We believe Christlikeness is cultivated as we implement spiritual practices, live in community with other believers, and submit to the Word and the Spirit. We agree with Dallas Willard who said, "that the gospel is opposed to earning, not effort." As we move towards cultivating a life of loving God and people, we trust Christ will mature us into his likeness. https://redeemerwichita.church/

What informs you will ultimately form you. In this message from Matthew 16:1–12, Jesus warns His disciples to "beware of the leaven" of the Pharisees and Sadducees—a powerful reminder that small influences can have massive spiritual impact. Just like yeast quietly works through dough, subtle ideas, attitudes, and relationships can shape our faith from the inside out. As religious leaders demanded signs with skeptical hearts, Jesus exposed the danger of bad teaching, a critical spirit, and corrupt company. A little compromise may seem harmless, but left unchecked, it can redirect your worldview, harden your heart, and erode your trust in God. This message challenges us to take inventory: What voices are shaping your understanding of God? Are you hearing truth with surrender—or with critique? Who has the strongest influence in your life? Jesus' warning isn't meant to create fear, but faithfulness. Guard your heart. Guard your mind. Surround yourself with people who strengthen your calling. Because a little leaven can either corrupt your character—or, when rooted in truth, cultivate Christlikeness. Stay vigilant. Protect your faith. Small influences create big impact.  

You can view the full service here: https://youtube.com/live/_c0ehjpYeTU Lent is the perfect time to review and renew our rule of life (also known as Rhythm for Life at St. Pete's). A rule of life is simply a means of intentionally organizing our life around practices or disciplines that invite the Holy Spirit to help us grow into Christlikeness. In other words, it's a personal plan for discipleship. The disciplines are not a means of belonging to Jesus; they are tools to offer the Spirit that we might become more like the One to whom we already belong. A key feature of the Christian disciplines is that in order for them to bear spiritual fruit, they are undertaken in secret. There are many spiritual disciplines, but most of them fall under Jesus' teaching on prayer, fasting, and giving (see Matthew 6). Prayer may include the daily office (Daily Office or St. Pete's version), spontaneous prayer, meditating on Scripture, lectio divina, silence, solitude, and journaling. Fasting may include abstaining from food on certain days, certain meals, specific foods, media, entertainment, and work (keeping sabbath). Giving may include tithing, giving to those in need, donating to outwards partners like Jacob's Well, serving, volunteering, practicing hospitality, and various forms of stewardship. If you would like accompaniment in reviewing and renewing your personal rule of life, please do reach out to one of the clergy.

In this powerful message, Pastor Mike continues our House of Discipleship series by diving into one of the ten "Rhythms of Jesus": Family on Mission. This week, we focus specifically on what it means to be a Marriage on Mission.Whether you are happily married, struggling, divorced, or single, this message is for you. Marriage isn't just a social contract or a pursuit of personal happiness — it's a divine "living parable" designed to reflect the character of God and the message of the Gospel to the world.Discussion Questions:- How does viewing marriage as a living parable that reflects God's character change the way you approach conflict and daily decisions in your relationship?- The sermon states that marriage is about holiness rather than happiness. How does this challenge cultural expectations, and what would it look like to prioritize holiness in your relationship?- How does the story of Hosea and Gomer challenge your understanding of forgiveness and reconciliation, especially when betrayal or hurt seems unforgivable?- For singles, how can you pursue Christlikeness now rather than waiting for marriage to begin your spiritual journey, and what destination are you setting for your life?- Which of the five bands of intimacy (social, intellectual, emotional, physical, spiritual) is weakest in your relationship, and what practical step can you take this week to strengthen it?

In this message, Richie Reeder invites the church into a sober but hopeful look at sin—not just as bad behavior to stop, but as an opportunity for Spirit-empowered transformation into Christlikeness. Drawing from Genesis 4, the image of sin "crouching at your door," and the wisdom of the desert fathers and mothers (especially John Cassian's eight vices), he challenges listeners to identify where they are most vulnerable and to practice small, embodied acts of resistance. Throughout, Richie emphasizes God's compassion and kindness in Christ, calling the congregation to allow the Holy Spirit to search their hearts and deepen their hunger for holiness.

Pastor Femi Paul delivered a thought-provoking message titled In Search of Character, confronting the urgent question: what is the value of Christianity without character? He shared that when many go searching for character, what they often find are merely “characters.” From society to politics and even within faith communities, the contrast between good character and compromised character is evident. Yet Scripture makes it clear in Genesis 1:26 and Ecclesiastes 7:29 that humanity was created in God's image to be virtuous and godly in character. We were not only created to reflect God's image but to embody His nature. Using the lives of Noah and Enoch, he highlighted that true distinction is rooted in integrity and walking closely with God. Character is revealed by fruit, not claims, as reinforced in Matthew 7:16. Real transformation, according to Romans 12:2 and 2 Corinthians 3:18, is primarily character transformation. Renewal of the mind must translate into visible integrity, moral clarity, and Christlike conduct. Transformation plugs character deficits when we submit to the Spirit's refining process. In a world of twisted standards, believers are called to be different - a breath of fresh air reflecting the character of God. Confession: I am created and saved to reflect God's character. My life demonstrates integrity, transformation, and Christlikeness.

The Spirit shapes who we are becoming. This week we will consider how spiritual gifts form us into Christlikeness and grow the church in maturity.Preacher:Sermon by Guy MasonThis episode is part of Wind & Fire, a teaching series exploring the person, presence and power of the Holy Spirit in the life of the church.As we open the Scriptures, we look to Christ and ask God to move among us again, bringing fresh wind and fresh fire to our hearts, equipping us with spiritual gifts, and empowering us for the mission of Jesus.Find out more at cityonahill.com.au/windandfire

Stéphanie Rousselle welcomes her friend, author and spiritual director Bonnie O'Neil, to discuss the spiritual significance of Lent through Bonnie's Christ-centered devotional, "Where the Light of Hope Falls." This new book gives us both theological depth and practical advice for those seeking to engage with Lent meaningfully.The title, "Where the Light of Hope Falls," reflects that our ultimate hope is found in Jesus' sacrificial love—His crucifixion and resurrection. Throughout Lent, we are invited to place our failures and longings in the light of the cross, finding forgiveness and strength, and emerging to share that hope with those around us.Lent is one of the two penitential seasons in the church calendar, alongside Advent, and is traditionally a time for deep self-examination and realignment with God. Bonnie O'Neil shares that, although she grew up in a tradition that didn't extensively engage with Lent, her lifelong exposure to global churches deepened her appreciation for its intentionality. Lent offers a set-aside, sacred period—40 days echoing biblical patterns for reflection and preparation, paralleling Jesus' own time in the wilderness. While anyone could, in theory, embark on a season of introspection at any time, Lent's communal and historical significance makes it a uniquely powerful time for spiritual renewal.The process of Lent isn't about guilt or shame but about journeying inward "into the cave"—a metaphor for self-examination. Bonnie O'Neil emphasizes that only by plumbing the depths of our inner lives can we experience true healing and freedom. Importantly, this journey is not taken alone or in harshness. She shares how her approach is shaped by gentleness, beginning with an anchoring in the belovedness we have in Christ. The process starts with focusing on Jesus, remembering that we are utterly loved and safe in God's presence; only then can we honestly bring ourselves to confession and repentance.A central tool Bonnie O'Neil uses is the historic Prayer of Confession from the Book of Common Prayer. Recited slowly, this prayer walks believers through acknowledging specific failings—not to wallow in them but to bring them into the healing presence of God's mercy. Bonnie O'Neil recounts how, in a moment of frustration, quietly praying this confession brought unexpected freedom and release, demonstrating how tender acknowledgment before God removes the power of pride and shame.The end goal of this Lenten journey isn't mere self-improvement. Bonnie O'Neil reminds us, drawing from John 17 and her experiences with Alpha, that true transformation equips us to participate in God's work of reconciliation and hope in the world. After deep inward work, we are called outward—to reflect Christ's hope and love to others, contributing to the revitalization of communities and the world at large.Lent is a sacred opportunity for intentional growth, transformation, and hope. Through honest self-examination, gentle confession, and remembrance of God's abundant mercy, we find freedom—not only for ourselves but for the wider world. This journey, lovingly guided by ancient prayers and the presence of the Holy Spirit, prepares us to walk in the light of Christ's resurrection—the truest hope of all.MORE ABOUT THE BOOKPurchase the book on Amazon today at https://a.co/d/4r14rHm If the Christian life is meant to form us in Christlikeness, then why is transformation so elusive?We yearn to break free from the habits and mindsets that continuously ensnare us and remind us of how far we have to travel in our journey toward Christlikeness. Yet we get locked into the same patterns of control, envy, shame, anger, pride, judgmentalism and more. Can we hope for rescue from these habits that are so contrary to the abundant life of grace and rest Jesus offers us?Incorporating 47 daily Scripture readings and meditations, Where the Light of Hope Falls guides you on a journey inward to discover the roots behind many hidden sin patterns. Beginning by examining Jesus—the one into whose image we seek transformation—and helping us get comfortable with honest confession and repentance, the book then explores twenty-one common sin habits. This daily devotional helps you not only identify these central issues, but also yield to the Holy Spirit's restorative work within you. From this posture of rest, you will discover that transformation into Christlikeness is never meant for your benefit only, but is meant to awaken you to share the love and grace of Jesus with a world in need. Where the Light of Hope Falls offers you:- 47 hope-filled meditations that guide you on a journey of discovering Jesus more intimately, understanding yourself more fully, and loving others more completely;- 47 Bible passages that anchor the meditations;- A journey into deeper rest that's perfect for Lent or anytime.Lent offers us six weeks to wrestle with old habits and press into new ways of being as we accompany Jesus to the cross. Everyone who thirsts for more of God is welcome here, whether Lent is a familiar practice or something brand new—and not only during Lent, but whenever you long for deeper freedom.MORE ABOUT BONNIE O'NEIL“Hi there! I'm Bonnie and I'm glad you stopped by. I'm a hope hunter. As long as I can remember, I have sought to find hope in the hard seasons of life. I believe beauty can be found in every life, and that sometimes beauty does its most transformative work in brokenness.My greatest source of hope comes from trusting in my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. My training and work as a spiritual director has shaped me to go deeper below the surface of our emotions to discover root causes of things that block us from experiencing the love of God.Drawing from a deep well of faith, I have learned the restorative grace of giving space for sorrow rather than pushing quickly past it. Whether writing about discovering deeper freedom in Jesus or searching for hope in the darkest valleys of illness, suffering, and broken dreams, my writing reflects life in all its beauty and messiness, convinced that hope glimmers even in the darkest of shadows.I wrote my latest book, Where the Light of Hope Falls, as a Lenten companion for your six-week journey to the cross with Jesus. The book is for everyone who thirsts for more of God—whether Lent is a familiar practice or something brand new, and for any season— not only during Lent, but whenever you long for deeper freedom.A former banker, I'm now the Executive Director of Alpha Mid Atlantic, the local face of a global ministry called Alpha. Alpha offers churches a post-Christian approach to introducing people to Jesus and is run in nearly every denominational stream within the Church. I live with my husband in greater Philadelphia but have also made my home in New York City, greater Boston, Paris, Florida, Connecticut, and London. My happiest times are spent in the company of my three adult children.I'm passionate about helping others encounter the God of love, finding a cure for type 1 diabetes, filling my senses with beauty and wonder, and exploring all things France.Perhaps you too are hunting for hope in the hard places. I'd love to travel with you through whatever life season you're currently encountering and discover hope and joy together in the journey. Thanks for visiting. I hope you'll continue hunting for hope with me!”More at https://www.bonnieoneil.com/ Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

At Redeemer, we take seriously Jesus' call to "Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Apprenticeship to Jesus is not a one time decision, but a lifelong journey of following Jesus as our master-teacher. Since the goal of the Christian life is maturity in Jesus, apprenticeship must be deep and holistic, transforming the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and vocational parts of men and women. Apprenticeship to Jesus is learning to practice the way of Jesus in our homes, relationships, neighborhoods, and jobs. We believe Christlikeness is cultivated as we implement spiritual practices, live in community with other believers, and submit to the Word and the Spirit. We agree with Dallas Willard who said, "that the gospel is opposed to earning, not effort." As we move towards cultivating a life of loving God and people, we trust Christ will mature us into his likeness. https://redeemerwichita.church/

In this week's sermon, Pastor John D. Putnam delivers a powerful and deeply practical message titled “Love Takes Time.” In a culture built on speed, instant results, and quick gratification, Pastor Putnam challenges believers to embrace a biblical truth that runs counter to modern expectations: real love is not formed in a moment—it is developed through process. Drawing from Philippians 1:6, this message reminds us that salvation is the beginning of our journey, not the finished product. While God's love toward us is immediate and unconditional, our growth into Christlikeness requires shaping, refining, and time. Love is not microwaved; it is formed. “Love Takes Time” is a call to surrender our timelines to God and allow Him to complete the work He has begun. Whether you are a new believer or decades into your walk with Christ, this message will challenge you to stop resisting the formation and start embracing the refinement. God is not finished with you yet. You are still on the wheel. And if you remain faithful in the forming, He will complete what He started. To hear more about what God is doing in Sheboygan County and beyond, visit us at posc.church!

A powerful call to uphold the gospel of grace while embodying Christ-like affection in pastoral ministry. This passage emphasizes that true gospel ministry is not merely doctrinally-precise but is also deeply personal, marked by sacrificial love and spiritual labor akin to a mother in childbirth, as Paul longs for Christ to be formed in the Galatians. The passage confronts the danger of legalism, exposing how the Judaizers' zeal was self-serving and divisive, while Paul's motivation was rooted in genuine care and a desire for the Galatians' spiritual maturity. The sermon underscores the painful reality that truth, when faithfully proclaimed, can provoke hostility, especially when it challenges sin and pride, yet faithful shepherds must endure such opposition without compromising biblical truth. Ultimately, it calls believers to cherish the liberty of grace, reject any attempt to add works to salvation, and pursue Christlikeness with both doctrinal fidelity and pastoral tenderness, all for the exaltation of Christ and the unity of His church.

Masculinity is under attack from every direction, leaving many men confused, ashamed, or pulled toward extremes. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar confront the cultural assault that labels masculinity as toxic on one side while promoting a hyper-masculine version on the other, arguing that both miss the biblical model shaped by Christ. The guys emphasize that masculinity is rooted in Christlikeness, beginning with laying down one's life. Scripture brings clarity where culture brings confusion, reminding listeners that God looks at the heart, and that strength and tenderness are not opposites. Jesus wept, David cried, and Jeremiah lamented, yet none were weak. The mixed messaging men receive today leaves many unsure how to lead, yet biblical leadership is grounded in humility, courage, and obedience to God.The guys explain that leadership is a hallmark of biblical manhood, yet many men feel shamed for stepping into that role. Culture rejects masculine leadership while promoting blurred distinctions between men and women. The gospel is the solution because it transforms men from the inside out. Many young men are searching for fathers and mentors, often seeking structure through the military or other systems. The guys challenge men in the church to disciple their own children and open their homes, modeling what faithful leadership, marriage, and responsibility look like, lived out daily.True masculinity is marked by honoring women and walking in obedience to God. David's charge to Solomon to be strong was rooted in keeping the Lord's commands. Oscar outlines four dimensions of biblical masculinity: spiritual devotion, physical stewardship, emotional maturity, and social responsibility. Men are called to grow in each area, recognizing that emotional health and spiritual depth are essential, not optional. Older men are urged to disciple younger men even when it feels uncomfortable, because growth often requires friction. The model for manhood is found in Scripture, refined through godly examples, and sustained through community in the local church.Faithfulness, the guys argue, is the most significant mark of masculinity. When men fail, the call is not despair but repentance. Men are called to be faithful in repentance, letting humility define their strength. Masculinity is bending the knee to Christ, serving others, and walking day by day in obedience. Leadership without servanthood is empty, but servanthood grounded in Christ reflects true power. The foundation of manhood is knowing Jesus, becoming like Him, and living faithfully within the body of believers.Send a textThanks for listening! If you've been helped by this podcast, we'd be grateful if you'd consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Masculinity is being pulled apart by cultural extremes that leave many men confused about who they are and how they are meant to live. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar point back to Scripture to show that true masculinity is not rooted in dominance or passivity, but in Christlikeness marked by humility, courage, and obedience to God. They explore how culture shames healthy male leadership while simultaneously promoting distorted versions of strength that lack compassion and accountability. Biblical manhood, they explain, begins with laying down one's life, honoring women, leading with integrity, and faithfully serving within the home, the church, and the world. Through repentance, discipleship, and a commitment to walk with Christ daily, men are called to reclaim a form of masculinity that reflects the heart of Jesus, strengthens families, and brings life to those around them.Send a textThanks for listening! If you've been helped by this podcast, we'd be grateful if you'd consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Today, Angie and Andrea are talking with Eunice Chung about what the Bible says about belonging. Together, they share personal stories of times they have felt like outsiders and consider how vulnerability, service, and gospel-centered unity shape meaningful community. Learn more about how we can find belonging with others who are different from us, how to take a biblical step toward belonging, and more. LINKS:Lifeway Women Academy“How Beauty Forms Us and Stirs the Christian Imagination” BlogFriends & Sisters Bible studyRECOMMENDED: Listen to this past Marked episode with Eunice on how to grow in Christlikeness. Hosted by Angie Elkins and Andrea Lennon with guest Eunice Chung. CONNECT WITH US!Marked is a podcast from Lifeway Women.  Learn more at lifeway.com/joshua. Learn more at lifeway.com/angels. 

The blueprint for Christian character development that the Apostle Peter gives us in 2 Peter 1 focuses us on a profound series of steps we need to take in order to be more Christlike. As a basis for this needed growth, we have seen how God's promises help us to be ready to systematically take the next step up Peter's “ladder” of Christian character development. So far in our series, we have begun to see how each step up this ladder needs the step before in order to actually bring us towards true daily discipleship. We now continue this character development process by looking into the fourth step up towards Christlikeness. This fourth rung in Peter's “virtue ladder” from 2 Peter 1:5‑7 is self‑control, the “allegiance of our passions.” The first three rungs—faith, moral excellence and knowledge, deal primarily with internal transformation. Self‑control is the pivot point where that inner work begins to show up in real‑world choices. The Greek word for this conveys mastery, inner power and dominion over oneself. For Christians, this begins with preventing harmful or unproductive thoughts from becoming actions, and culminates in actively choosing what is spiritual, wholesome and Christlike. Our discipline requires self‑examination: identifying what naturally pulls us off course so we can learn to make adjustments. The self-control of an athlete running a race Paul's athletic metaphors in 1 Corinthians 9 highlight three components of self-control: intentional focus on the goal, embracing necessary limitations and wholehearted perseverance. Like a trained athlete, we as Christians must make many daily small, disciplined choices that strengthen spiritual “muscle memory.” Self-control also shapes how we view and treat others, enabling us to respond with grace rather than instinctive frustration. It's important to recognize that self-control is not a standalone virtue, and it stabilizes the entire structure of our Christian characters. Without knowledge, self-control becomes directionless; without self-control, perseverance becomes impossible. When rooted in faith, moral excellence, and knowledge, self-control opens the door to genuine spiritual growth and Christlike living. Key Takeaways Self-control is the “allegiance of our passions,” the disciplined governing of our impulses and desires. It is the pivot point where inner transformation becomes outward behavior. True self-control begins with restraint and culminates in choosing what is spiritually beneficial. The Apostle Paul's athletic imagery teaches focus, limitation and perseverance as essential components. Self-control shapes how we respond to others, reflecting Christ rather than our impulses. It stabilizes the entire virtue ladder and enables the next step: perseverance.

In DTWOL… TIME challenges the belief that time heals, fixes, or saves, and points us instead to the only true God who sovereignly appoints every moment of time. While we live within time, God works above it—using waiting, seasons, and delay as intentional discipleship workmanship to form Christlikeness in us. Scripture reveals that God saves instantly but sanctifies purposefully, cultivating patience, renewing the mind, and producing fruit by the energeia of the Holy Spirit over time. This episode calls disciples to live alertly, trust God's timing, and respond faithfully while time is still given. God's Word: Galatians 4:4; Ecclesiastes 3:1; 2 Peter 3:8–9; Philippians 2:13; Romans 12:2; Matthew 28:19–20; Additional Scripture references are woven throughout the Godcast and can be gleaned from the full transcript. Amen?Email: walkingtheway3@gmail.com

God's wisdom results in Christlikeness in how we live and how we treat others.

Discipleship Pastor Graydon Jones preaches about how moments of deliverance must be supported by a lifetime of Spiritual formation. The freedom-in-Christ journey requires a curriculum of Christlikeness, which transforms our thoughts, words, and actions so that we become a new person who is like Jesus.

At Redeemer, we take seriously Jesus' call to "Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Apprenticeship to Jesus is not a one time decision, but a lifelong journey of following Jesus as our master-teacher. Since the goal of the Christian life is maturity in Jesus, apprenticeship must be deep and holistic, transforming the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and vocational parts of men and women. Apprenticeship to Jesus is learning to practice the way of Jesus in our homes, relationships, neighborhoods, and jobs. We believe Christlikeness is cultivated as we implement spiritual practices, live in community with other believers, and submit to the Word and the Spirit. We agree with Dallas Willard who said, "that the gospel is opposed to earning, not effort." As we move towards cultivating a life of loving God and people, we trust Christ will mature us into his likeness. https://redeemerwichita.church/

Life is a journey. The start is physical birth, but the true beginning is regeneration (spiritual rebirth); and the goal is Christlikeness and eternal life with your Savior.

Send us a textDating does not have to be confusing, exhausting, or expensive. We're pulling back the curtain on five practical rules that protect your heart, save your time, and set you up for a marriage that can actually thrive. From defining non‑negotiables to reading red flags without second‑guessing yourself, we walk through the mindsets and habits that turn your twenties into a launchpad instead of a landfill.We start by reframing the goal: Christlikeness over a wedding date. Contentment beats comparison, and wholeness beats hurried timelines. Then we get specific. Date on purpose using a 90‑day clarity window. Ask better questions about faith, direction, and character. Choose character over chemistry by testing for humility, forgiveness, and submission to godly authority. Pace the relationship with clear boundaries—public early dates, digital guardrails, and honest conversations about sex, soul ties, and healing. We also tackle love bombing, why it feels so real at first, and how accountability reveals the truth before it's too late.Money matters too. Check the credit, not just the chemistry, and bring debt, spending, tithing, and budgeting into the light so you can build trust instead of resentment. Finally, don't date alone. Isolation creates illusion; community brings clarity. Invite a married mentor and a wise peer, worship together, and let your circle call green, yellow, or red flags. Healthy relationships can handle scrutiny because they are built on truth.If this helped you rethink your standards or reset your pace, share it with a friend who needs clarity, subscribe for new episodes every Thursday at 3 p.m., and leave a review to tell us your biggest takeaway. Your future self will thank you.GET THE BETTER MARRIAGE BOOTCAMP HERE:Better Marriage Bootcamp (kenandtabatha.com)Better Marriage 90-Day Devotional:90 Day Better Marriage Devotional - Ken and Tabatha (square.site)DOWNLOAD THE FAMILY MEETING OUTLINE HERE ⬇️https://www.kenandtabatha.com/pl/2148103888

Visit www.joniradio.org for more inspiration and encouragement! --------Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

Sometimes people have in their minds that it is other people's responsibility to help people grow in their Christian faith, when in reality it is every Christian's job to help others grow in Christlikeness.

Send Us Your Prayer Requests --------Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

In 2 Peter 1, the Apostle Peter laid out a phenomenal blueprint for us to follow regarding the how and why of developing a focused and loyal character that is modeled after Christ. After reminding us of the incomprehensible promises that God brings us through His power and Jesus' sacrifice, he then focuses us on doing our part. Peter gives us a blueprint for building a virtue “ladder” of Christian character development, of which the first rung is our faith. Because we have the firm footing of Christian faith in place, we can then develop “moral excellence,” which in turn gives us the stability to next develop knowledge. As we will continue to see, when followed, the order of developing these attributes of our Christian characters will yield an unbreakable allegiance to daily, living God's will through Christ! Peter's ladder sequence is intentional: faith establishes our direction, moral excellence aligns our heart with God's highest standards, and only then can knowledge become a stable, Christlike attribute rather than a source of pride or harm. By contrasting godly vs. misapplied knowledge, we can see that without moral excellence, it can inflate ego and harm others. Paul's teaching in 1 Corinthians 8 shows that even correct knowledge can become destructive if it emboldens weaker Christians to violate their conscience. True Christian knowledge must therefore be governed by love, humility and responsibility. How much of the Bible do I have to know? This is not about mastering every prophecy or detail, but about understanding Christlikeness and allowing God's light to shape our intellect. All Scripture – both in the Old and New Testaments – is the essential source of this knowledge, forming a lifelong journey of discernment, filtering out worldly influences, and taking every thought captive to Christ. God's plan is expansive, merciful and awe‑inspiring. Recognizing its depth should cultivate gratitude rather than arrogance. Paul's example in Philippians 3 shows the surpassing value of knowing Christ, which makes all previous accomplishments seem like “rubbish” in comparison. Ultimately, knowledge becomes transformative when it flows from faith, is shaped by moral excellence, and leads us toward deeper loyalty to God's will. Key Takeaways Knowledge must be built on faith and moral excellence to avoid arrogance. Misapplied knowledge can harm others while godly knowledge is always governed by love. All Scripture is the authoritative source of Christian understanding. True knowledge produces humility, responsibility and awe at God's plan.

Much of our life is spent avoiding pain. Yet pain teaches us that something is wrong and needs correction. Similarly, God uses our pain to grow us into greater Christlikeness. From Romans 5 & 1 Peter 4.

At Redeemer, we take seriously Jesus' call to "Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Apprenticeship to Jesus is not a one time decision, but a lifelong journey of following Jesus as our master-teacher. Since the goal of the Christian life is maturity in Jesus, apprenticeship must be deep and holistic, transforming the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and vocational parts of men and women. Apprenticeship to Jesus is learning to practice the way of Jesus in our homes, relationships, neighborhoods, and jobs. We believe Christlikeness is cultivated as we implement spiritual practices, live in community with other believers, and submit to the Word and the Spirit. We agree with Dallas Willard who said, "that the gospel is opposed to earning, not effort." As we move towards cultivating a life of loving God and people, we trust Christ will mature us into his likeness. https://redeemerwichita.church/

What if wealth isn't about luck, connections, or hustle—but about how you think?   In today's episode, we unpack a fascinating story of a 17-year-old dishwasher who spent a decade working inside a high-end country club alongside ultra-wealthy members. What he learned completely dismantled common assumptions about rich people—and surprisingly, many of his lessons line up directly with Scripture.   Bob and Linda walk through 7 mindset shifts that separate people who grow wealth from those who stay stuck, and why renewing your mind around money may be the most biblical financial move you can make.   This isn't about chasing money—it's about becoming the kind of person God can trust with more.     Episode Highlights 1. Rich people aren't greedy—greed is the problem Money doesn't change your heart; it amplifies what's already there. When we believe "all rich people are greedy," we subconsciously sabotage our own growth. 2. Be cool (aka: be kind) True wealth shows up as humility and generosity toward those earlier on the path. Kindness is influence. 3. Wealthy kids inherit a mindset before they inherit money What did you inherit about money growing up? Limiting beliefs can be rewired—especially through God's Word. "For as he thinks in his heart, so is he." —Proverbs 23:7 (NLT) 4. You don't need school to be successful—but you do need wisdom Education matters, but obedience to God matters more. College doesn't guarantee provision—God does. 5. Stop chasing money; start creating value Money is a result, not a target. It's simply a reflection of the value you bring to others. 6. Money is a learnable skill You don't have to be "good at math" to be good with money. One book, one framework, one habit can radically change your financial future. 7. Focus on becoming who God created you to be Growth, wisdom, and Christlikeness compound over time—and so does stewardship.   Key Scriptures Mentioned (NLT) Proverbs 23:7 — "For as he thinks in his heart, so is he." Romans 12:2 — "Let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think." Matthew 6:26 — God's provision for the birds (and for you)   Action Item for This Week Do these three things: Identify one limiting belief you inherited about money. Find one biblical truth that directly contradicts it. Learn one practical thing about how money actually works (book, podcast, or Scripture). Small shifts in thinking can unlock massive change.   Wealth doesn't start in your bank account—it starts in your beliefs.    

How do we heal, grow, and change as apprentices of Jesus? Many of us have subscribed to the traditional Christian approach of “trying harder” to “believe and do what's right,” only to find ourselves stuck and discouraged. Thankfully the vision Jesus casts for transformation shows us a different path forward.Join us for this episode of Soul Talks as Bill and Kristi share how Dallas Willard's mantra, “Don't try — train,” revolutionized their approach to spiritual formation. You'll burn with a desire to become more loving and healthy and get equipped with a practical tool to help you grow in Christlikeness one area at a time.If you want to go deeper into the insights we gained from Dallas Willard, we invite you to join us on a retreat or train to become a spiritual director with Soul Shepherding. You can learn more by following the links below.Resources for this Episode:Attend a Soul Shepherding RetreatEarn a Certificate in Spiritual DirectionYour Best Life in Jesus' Easy Yoke: Rhythms of Grace to De-Stress and Live EmpoweredDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

God created every believer with purpose, passion, and a calling that extends far beyond themselves. This Christian devotional explores how a heart ignited with purposed passion presses forward in pursuit of Christ and His Kingdom. Rooted in Philippians 3:12–14, it encourages believers to keep their eyes fixed on Jesus, pressing on toward spiritual maturity and Christlikeness. Highlights God gives every believer passion with a purpose Spiritual growth requires perseverance, not perfection True passion flows from devotion to Christ Scripture fuels zeal and keeps our focus on Jesus Letting go of the past frees us to press forward God’s grace sustains us when passion feels weak Christlikeness is the ultimate prize we pursue Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: A Heart Ignited with Purposed Passion By: Emily Rose Massey Bible Reading:“Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. 13 Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:12-14, ESV). What excites you and drives your passion? Being made in the image of God means that we all possess a unique passion. The vital question we must ask ourselves is: Is my passion directed inward, or does it fuel me to pursue Christ and His purposes? Our drive and passion for the Lord and His Kingdom are closely tied to our devotion to Him, revealing our purpose of knowing Christ and serving Him. Most of all, reading and studying the scriptures should fuel our passion because it sets our eyes upon the Lord and helps us take our eyes off of ourselves. What motivates your drive towards Christ? For the Apostle Paul, it was the prize of the upward call of God: “Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. 13 Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:12-14, ESV). Intersecting Life & Faith: We can remind our hearts that if we are born again, Christ purchased our lives for a purpose and has made us His own. He did this so that we would bear fruit for His glory. Christ reached down and rescued me, so I should always be reaching for Christ. We press on to know Christ relationally and serve Him faithfully, and we must press on even more when we feel weak. We can look to Christ and ask for strength to keep going, and He will be faithful to give us His abundant grace. We shouldn’t be entangled by our past sins, sorrows, or even successes, as these things will distract us and hold us back from pressing on in our pursuit of Christ and His purpose. If you are lacking in passion regarding the things of God, perhaps you can write down some temptations and convictions regarding distractions that may be draining your zeal for the Lord. It is easy to become entangled by worldly pursuits, but God’s grace is available to us to turn away from anything that would keep us from running hard after Christ. May the Lord give us zeal and an increased pace and an increased engagement in Kingdom pursuits as we press towards the prize. Ultimately, Christlikeness is our prize. Let us seek the Lord and ask Him to increase our passion to become more like Him! He is faithful to give us more zeal, especially if our aim is that He would receive all the glory, not ourselves. Are you reaching for the upward call, longing to become more Christ-like in your pursuits and in the fruit of your life? What worldly pursuits might be hindering you from being conformed to the image of Christ? Let us not resist the call to take up our cross and follow Jesus. Our flesh is weak, but we must trust that we can find strength and grace in Christ to keep pressing forward, straining for the prize. Ask the Lord to ignite a zeal in your soul for God and His Kingdom. In your striving and running, we must trust that God chooses the pace as we move forward, linking arms with other believers. He empowers us with His Spirit and is faithful to complete the work He has started. Run your race for God’s glory, fixing your eyes on heaven. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In 2 Peter chapter 1, the Apostle Peter is laying out a phenomenal blueprint for us to follow regarding the how and why of developing a focused and loyal character modeled after Christ. He begins by reminding us of the majesty and power of God, along with the loyalty and sacrifice of Jesus. He tells us that because God is as lofty as He is, we are given incomprehensible promises that can bring us to God's own divine nature. He then tells us what's required on our part. Peter explains that because of these promises, we need to apply all diligence, and in our faith, we need to supply – to develop and live – a character that will nurture and grow specific virtues of Christlikeness. As we continue our Christian Character Series, the second “Allegiance Attribute” in Peter's spiritual blueprint is moral excellence. Building on the foundation of faith, we find that that moral excellence is not merely good behavior but wholehearted allegiance of the heart—a life shaped by God's purpose and modeled after His own character. This excellence evokes the idea of something fulfilling its highest purpose, like a horse that runs fast, or land that produces abundantly. For Christians, this moral excellence means living in a way that reflects God's excellence and demonstrates that His purpose truly matters to us. Inward excellence and outward goodness This inward excellence naturally produces outward goodness, the visible conduct others can observe. Drawing from several scriptures, we can observe how moral excellence expresses itself through humility, patience, forgiveness, perseverance, gratitude and Spirit‑led transformation. True Christian virtue is not simply avoiding wrongdoing but actively embodying Christlike character in everyday interactions. The challenge is that God's standard is high, and we will fail repeatedly. Yet Peter reassures us that God has already provided “everything pertaining to life and godliness,” equipping us through His promises to grow into His divine likeness. Moral excellence becomes possible, not because we are strong, but because God is faithful. Ask yourself: Is my moral excellence stronger today than yesterday? Am I becoming the person God intends me to be? Key Takeaways Moral excellence is the allegiance of the heart, reflecting God's character and purpose. Inner excellence produces visible goodness. True virtue requires intentional growth, not just avoiding sin but embodying Christlike qualities. God equips believers with everything needed to develop moral excellence through His promises. Spiritual progress requires perseverance, humility and daily habits that nurture transformation.

This message challenged the myth that spiritual maturity is measured solely by knowledge. Drawing from Paul's letters to the Corinthians, we were reminded that love, not gifting, eloquence, or Bible literacy, is the true evidence of Christlikeness. Jesus didn't just know Scripture; He embodied it, proclaiming good news to the poor and freedom to the oppressed. That same Word must move beyond our eyes and into our hearts if we are to reflect Him. When the Word goes through us, not just around us, it reshapes our character and deepens our love. Maturity isn't information; it's transformation. So this week, we're invited to do more than read Scripture. We're invited to let Scripture read us.

The apostle Paul wrote extensively about salvation and the Christian life. He firmly teaches that we are saved by God's grace through Jesus Christ's death and resurrection. He also teaches how believers ought to behave. Join us as we study Paul's teachings in his letter to early Christians. Together, we'll see how his message clarifies how we walk in step with the Holy Spirit, growing in Christlikeness, as we keep Christ's work on the cross at the center of salvation through Grace alone. 

This message teaches that reading the Bible well requires more than sincerity, it requires context. Using the example of the 1938 "Panic Broadcast," we're reminded that confusion often comes not from foolishness, but from listening without understanding the larger story. Jesus models true biblical interpretation in Luke 24 by opening His disciples' minds to understand the Scriptures, showing that the Bible must be read rightly to be understood truly. Because every reader is also an interpreter, biblical literacy is not about reading more verses, but learning to read Scripture within its literary, historical, and canonical context, so we can see the unified story that leads to Jesus.Formational:Invitation Move us from reading isolated Bible verses to learning how to read Scripture within its full context so it shapes us toward Christlikeness.Key Scriptures:Luke 24:44-48 - Jesus opens their minds to understand the ScripturesNehemiah 8:1-8- Scripture read and explained so people understand2 Timothy 2:15 - Handling the word of truth rightlyOur mission at Victory Life Church is to "See people transformed by Jesus". It is our sincere hope to help people follow Jesus as true disciples who are on a constant journey of transformation. If you'd like to learn more about our ministry or contact us you can visit our website at https://vl.church or fill out a connection form at this link: https://victorylifechurch.com/contact/===================================================================If this content blessed you and you would like to help us reach more people, please subscribe, click that thumbs-up button, and share this video with a friend.If you'd like to support us financially, you can make donations here: https://pushpay.com/g/vlconline===================================================================Follow us on Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/fb.vl.churchVisit our websitehttps://victorylifechurch.comPastor Jacob's Youtube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@JacobSheriffhttps://jacobsheriff.comPastor Duane's Youtube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/c/DuaneSheriffMinistrieshttps://pastorduane.comSupport the showThis podcast is brought to you free of charge through the donations of generous people.If this content blessed you and you would like to help us reach more people, please take a few minutes to rate our podcast and leave us a review.If you'd like to support us financially, you can make donations hereIf you'd like to learn more about us you can visit our website.If you'd like to contact us directly follow this link. If you enjoyed this teaching, Pastor Jacob has another conversation-style podcast that we think you'd really enjoy. Check it out here!

You don't drift toward Christlikeness - you choose it.

Cultivating Virtue   There are two main components to growing in Christlikeness - putting off vice and putting on virtue. You see this all throughout the New Testament.  For example, Colossians 3:5-9 concerns behaviors to be eliminated and 3:12-17 lists virtues to cultivate.  You find this same pattern all throughout the New Testament.  And in every place, we have are called to act. In other words, cultivating virtue doesn't happen on accident. It requires intentional effort, albeit effort enabled by God's grace through the Spirit.  In this episode of the Bible in Life podcast we consider some of the  things we can do to cultivate specific virtues.    Free 30 Page eBook to help you Hear and Heed the Bible:  https://www.johnwhittaker.net   Support this ministry: Set up a recurring monthly or a one-time donation at the link below. http://worldfamilymissions.org/john-whittaker/   The Listener's Commentary - In-depth teaching through books of the Bible to help you learn the Bible for yourself:  https://www.listenerscommentary.com   Connect with John: Social Media- connect on facebook and instagram Email - john@johnwhittaker.net If you've been helped by this teaching leave a review and share freely - on Facebook, Instagram, X, via email.

Spiritual drift doesn't usually happen overnight, and neither does Christlikeness. In this episode, Costi Hinn unpacks how daily habits—both seen and unseen—shape the direction of your life and the health of your soul.